IU Health could merge two downtown hospitals

Indiana University Health officials have confirmed they are looking at the possibility of merging two of their hospitals in the future as inpatient needs decline.

WRTV

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INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana University Health officials said they are looking at the possibility of merging two of their hospitals in the future as inpatient needs decline.

The two hospitals in question are University and Methodist, but there were no details on when the potential merger would happen. It is possible that either one or both of the facilities could close -- or be converted to something else entirely.

Officials said a team of 25 people has started to look at a new model in health care that will impact downtown operations in the future.

An official said the hospital group wants to remain in the forefront of health care changes and they are committed to staying in downtown Indianapolis.

IU Health has already started to consolidate their emergency rooms. Starting July 1, University's ER will close and all of its patients will be sent to the Methodist ER.

The two hospitals employ more than 5,000 people.

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Copyright 2014 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.